Raising the bar again with 2016 pub and club awards

Borders pubs, clubs and hotels are being invited to take part in Best Bar None Scotland 2016 by the Safer Communities Team at Scottish Borders Council (SBC).

The scheme is an opportunity for the local licensing trade to take part in an accredited award scheme and demonstrate their commitment to operating safe, secure and customer focused venues. It also provides recognition of their efforts in managing a good venue.

It is available throughout the Borders to pubs, bars, clubs or hotels that can demonstrate a commitment to a safer and more secure environment for the public. There are three levels of award – bronze, silver and gold – which are awarded following an independent inspection of each participating venue.

Licensed proprietors who take part in the scheme can access a number of benefits. These include formal recognition of their good management practice, use of the Best Bar None brand in advertising and promotional materials, media interest and the opportunity to be acknowledged nationally as a Best Bar None venue. They also receive an accreditation plaque which can be used to enhance their reputation both locally and nationally, which brings with it the recognition of their premises as a quality venue which is serious about customer care and safety and that the town they trade in is a safe environment.

The Black Bull Hotel in Duns received a silver award in 2015.

Proprietor Pamela Turner said;

“As a small business within the Borders we are delighted to be involved in the Best Bar None Awards. We are proud of our achievement and have gained excellent knowledge and practice through being involved in the Best Bar None Awards”

Councillor Donald Moffat, SBC’s Executive Member for Community Safety added:

“In addition to the benefits this scheme brings to licensed proprietors, it offers members of the public greater confidence and reassurance that award holders place a high value on maintaining a properly licensed, well managed venue where customers can relax and feel safe knowing that responsible drinking is encouraged.”

PC Nick Walker from the Scottish Borders Safer Communities Team and local Best Bar None lead, added:

“Best Bar None is great opportunity for premises and partner agencies in the Scottish Borders to work together in order to maintain safe and welcoming licensed venues. The process is very straightforward and Police Scotland and Council licensing staff are available to assist participants at all stages.”

The closing date for this year’s applications is 13th July. Application forms are available from the Council website: www.scotborders.gov.uk/bestbarnone or from the Safer Communities Team on 01835 823204.

Anyone interested in taking part in the scheme is also invited to an information and launch event at the Council Chamber Galashiels at from 2pm-3:30pm on Wednesday 4th May 2016 where they will have an opportunity to meet existing Best Bar None award members and find out more about the scheme. Contact the Safer Communities Team for more information.

Allocation of the awards will be announced at a ceremony due to take place in February next year.